Former Fresno State President, CSU Chancellor Joseph Castro Dies at 58

Dr. Joseph I. Castro, the first Mexican-American and California native to serve as president of Fresno State and chancellor of the California State University system, passed away at age 58 after battling cancer. Castro served as Fresno State's president from 2013 to 2020, and during his tenure, the percentage of Hispanic students increased significantly. He was known for championing first-generation students and expanding access to education, believing it could transform communities. Castro resigned as CSU chancellor in 2022 amid controversy over his handling of sexual harassment complaints but remained a respected figure in higher education. His family described him as a devoted husband, father, and man of faith who lived with humility and compassion. Fresno State honored his legacy by lowering flags to half-staff, and current leadership expressed condolences and highlighted his inspiring journey from a small town to leading the largest public university system in the nation.